The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Social Services (BSS), is recognizing April as Family Strengthening and Child Abuse Prevention Month, as proclaimed by Governor Patrick Morrisey, to raise awareness of prevention efforts and encourage parents, communities, and stakeholders to help reduce child abuse and neglect across the state.
DoHS used the opportunity to highlight statewide prevention efforts through initiatives such as the Safety Assessment and Family Evaluation (SAFE) Model, an evidence-based approach implemented within Centralized Intake that supports informed decision-making and helps improve outcomes for children and families. Additionally, CarePortal connects families with community resources to meet immediate needs, and in partnership with Chestnut Mountain Village, will expand with a launch in Taylor County on April 15, further supporting families through community-based partnerships.
“Protecting children starts with supporting families,” said Lorie Bragg, DoHS Commissioner of the Bureau for Social Services. “Through prevention-focused efforts, we are working to identify needs earlier and connect families with meaningful support.”
BSS’s Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect Hotline is available 24/7, 365 days a year, to respond to reports of suspected abuse or neglect involving children and vulnerable adults. To report concerns, call 1-800-352-6513.
DoHS also encourages participation in Wear Blue Day on April 3 to raise awareness and show support for child abuse prevention efforts.
